Safety In The Bathroom Using Non Slip Products Rugs And Bathtub Mats

Did you know your bathroom is one of the most dangerous areas in your home? Every year thousands of people are injured by slip and fall accidents in the bathroom. Most of these injuries could have been prevented by adding a few safety features that minimize the risk of slipping on tiled floors and in the bathtub.

According to the U.S. National Safety Council (NSC) 90% of all slip and fall accidents happen in the bathroom effecting mostly the elderly and young children 18 years old and younger. You can reduce the hazard of slipping in the bathtub and on glossy tiled bathroom floors by:

Installing A Non Slip Self Adhesive Bathtub Mat

According to the ADA non slip bathtub mats reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents in the bathtub. Adhesive bathtub mats are a peel and stick product made of bio-poly vinyl that do not mildew and are permanently installed easily in a few minutes. Unlike suction type bathtub mats the adhesive bathtub mat will not slide around the tub and can be used on refinished bathtubs.

Peel and stick bathtub mats remain permanently adhered for up to 3 years and have eight times the slip resistance of suction type bathtub mats. They can be installed on smooth surfaces such as porcelain enamel, fiberglass, acrylic and cultured marble.

Applying A Non Slip Treatment To Porcelain Bathtub and Tiled Floors

Non slip treatments are a mild etching product that creates an invisible anti slip surface to bathtub floors and glossy tile in the bathroom. A mild etching solution is applied to the surface, agitated for 10 minutes then rinsed thoroughly. These treatments can be used on porcelain enamel and large areas of floor tile. When the surface gets wet the non slip properties activate.

Area Rugs In The Bathroom

Bathroom rugs help reduce the chances of slipping on tiled bathroom floors. The backing of these rugs must be made of rubber or other non slip properties. If using bathroom rugs for safety always install them in areas where you step out of the bathtub or shower and in places that tend to get wet such as by the sink. Since these rugs are washable periodically check the backing of these rugs for deterioration.

Other steps that can be taken to reduce your exposure to being injured in the bathroom is to not leave towels, clothing or childrens toys on the floor while bathing. Unplug electrical appliances when not in use and make sure you electrical outlets are GFI wet location protected.